1899 Dahabiya Kingfisher

1899 Dahabiya Kingfisher is one of the Nile’s original dahabiyas, built for Thomas Cook & Son at the end of the 19th century. Exuding the timeless elegance of the golden age of travel, the Kingfisher Dahabiya was restored to its former glory in the year 2000 by the renowned Egyptologist Dr. Kent Weeks. This simple, yet charming and attractively priced dahabiya featuring one suite and two guest cabins, is an attractive choice for couples or a family looking for an intimate private Nile charter.

Its distinctive low prow is spacious and open, as it was originally designed to provide space for six oarsmen. Within the dahabiya, white-panelled interiors, oriental rugs, polished brass fittings, and dark hardwood furnishings contribute to the period charm. Accommodation is located on the Main Deck. The three cabins are air-conditioned and come with ensuite tiled bathrooms equipped with a WC, washbasin, and shower. One of the guest cabins (10.5 m² + private bathroom: 2 m²) and the suite (17.3 m² + private bathroom: 3 m²) span the full width of the dahabiya, while the smaller third cabin (8 m² + private bathroom: 2 m²) has three windows on the starboard side.

Two staircases lead guests up from the Main Deck to the 1899 Dahabiya Kingfisher’s cosy and shaded Sun Deck with its sitting area, sun loungers, and dining table. Planted to resemble an Orangery, the Sun Deck is where you will enjoy meals that are crafted by your onboard chef and observe the stunning natural beauty of Upper Egypt as you sail effortlessly between lush Nile islands and off-the-beaten-track archaeological sites.

The 1899 Dahabiya Kingfisher was built to be fast and comfortable. It is 26.3 metres in length, 4.6 metres in width, and with a draft of only 1.4 metres – she can often journey under sail even when the winds are light. It should be noted that the Kingfisher Dahabiya doesn’t have an indoor lounge, and that when winds are too light, it is pulled by its tugboat.